Information Literacy as Correlates of Engineering Undergraduates’ Use of Electronic Resources in Three Universities in Osun State, Nigeria.

Information literacy conceptualized to be an individual recognized the need for information and know how to find, evaluate and communicate information effectively to make decision, this study focused on information literacy as correlates of engineering undergraduates use of electronic resources in three universities in Osun state, Nigeria. The study extensively discussed on: information literacy, electronic resources use, and types of information available, level of use. The descriptive survey design was adopted, the population consisted 100-500level engineering students both in a federal, private and state universities under study. Three hundred fifty- four (354) copies of questionnaire were administered to engineering undergraduate’s students across the selected three universities, two hundred and twenty-seven (227) copies of questionnaire filled were returned for analyses software package for social sciences were used for data analyses. The study further emphasized on types of e-resources, purpose of use of e-resources, frequency of use of e-resources etc, it was revealed from the study that, e-resources were found moderately available, usable for personal development of engineering undergraduates students in Osun state, the study therefore concludes that relevant electronic information resources, non-reliability of online information and staff willingness to assists students in the use of e-resources is one among the problems confronting engineering undergraduates students. Finally, it was recommended from the study that, information literacy should be incorporated into the general studies programme on library use which should be made compulsory for all undergraduates in their first year in the university

Personal Protection of Privacy in the Information Age

The Information Age has revolutionized society through the use of computers and digital technology, enabling improved communication, increased productivity, and versatile working. However, this period has also resulted in excessive data collection and surveillance, threatening individual privacy, freedom of expression, and civic engagement. Despite data privacy laws, the increasing use of automated technologies by both government and private entities has made it difficult to safeguard individual rights. In the digital age, personal privacy is becoming increasingly difficult to protect, with the omnipresent danger of personal data being stolen or sold. To address this, various processes have been suggested, including using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), encrypting emails, being cautious with links and attachments, looking for privacy indicators on websites, using anti-malware and anti-virus protection, and following the principle of least privilege. Libraries play a crucial role in promoting and protecting individual privacy by empowering individuals, developing procedures to protect patron privacy, advocating for privacy in the public sphere, and educating users about the importance of digital privacy. By implementing these steps, individuals and organizations can protect their personal information and prevent hackers from accessing sensitive data. As we continue to navigate the Information Age, protecting privacy and promoting digital literacy will be critical in ensuring a safe and equitable future